“He’s not for sale” “Don’t sell him” – Enzo Maresca tells board to keep Chelsea player ahead of next season
Chelsea has a history of using some of its younger players who were groomed at Cobham for financial gain.
Lewis Hall left the team on a permanent basis this summer after spending the previous season on loan at Newcastle United.
Ian Maatsen, who felt he was not given enough opportunities by Enzo Maresca, also transferred to Aston Villa, a Premier League competitor.
Several young players joined the first team squad during Chelsea’s recent preseason trip of the United States in an attempt to impress the new boss.
Josh Acheampong is one of those who appears to have done so; the manager has already called him “fantastic.”
Josh Acheampong not for sale
Reports yesterday claimed that some of Europe’s elite sides were interested in Acheampong, and there is always a chance Chelsea will part ways if big money is offered.
However, journalist Miguel Delaney has claimed that the club are insistent he will not be sold, with Maresca’s admiration of him a big reason behind that.
He said: “Update on this: understand Chelsea insistent Acheampong not for sale, regardless of Madrid/PSG interest, and Maresca a big fan.”
he youngster made an impact when he made his Premier League debut last season against Tottenham in the midst of their injury crisis under Mauricio Pochettino.
Acheampong impressed on debut last season
Acheampong made more blocks in 12 minutes than any other player on the pitch as the Blues picked up a big win on their way to finishing in the top six.
It remains to be seen how much of an opportunity will crop up for the defender to feature this season, however the backline has been noted as a real area for concern from the trip to America.
Given the fact that Maresca has already singled him out for praise since joining the club, it suggests he will be in his thinking when the Premier League campaign getting underway.